By Jags Goldie Last updated: 17th November 2022

Havana Silk Dog

By

Jags Goldie
Last updated: 17th November 2022

The Havana Silk Dog is a type of small, sturdy dogs derived from the Havanese. As compared to its parents, the Havanese Silk has smaller ears, a more extended muzzle, a silkier coat, and straighter forelegs. It comes with a broad, slightly rounded muzzle, quite large, dark eyes, high-set ears, broad nose, moderately long neck, muscular, well laid back shoulders, strong legs with moderate angulation, and a medium-length tail that is usually carried high.

Havana Silk Dog Pictures

Quick Information

CoatQuite flat, soft, naturally forming waves, long, silky hair or short, fine satin hair
ColorAny color combination except merle, dark pigmentation may be present around the eyes
Breed TypePurebred
CategoryRare, Toy dog
Lifespan10-15 years
Weight8-13 lbs
SizeSmall
Height9-12 in
SheddingLow
TemperamentSweet, loving, friendly, social
HypoallergenicYes
Litter Size4-7 puppies
Good with ChildrenYes
BarkingModerate
Country Originated inCuba
Competitive Registration/ Qualification InformationHSDAA

History

Believed to have been created in Colonial Cuba, the Havana Silk is considered a “recreated breed” that signifies the efforts of some 21st century-breeders to develop a type of dog that was common in Europe during the 1600s and 1700s. Also called the “Small Dogs of Havane,” the dogs were common in the European courts also displayed in early shows.

During the late 1960s, some of these small dogs were brought to the US by the Cuban immigrants, and these dogs formed the foundation stock of the Havanese in America. In 2000, a specific type of dwarfism was observed in the Havanese and was one of the many health issues affecting the breed. A group of breeders started breeding only those dogs that had long, straight forelegs.

Within a few generations, a new type of dogs emerged that had physical soundness, and a flatter, silkier coat than their parents. In early 2007, the fanciers and breeders parted from the parent club and formed their own national Club and registry. Since it had a close resemblance to the small dogs of Cuba, the newly restored breed was named the Havana Silk Dog.

Temperament and Behavior

The Havanese Silk is a spirited dog with a great personality. It enjoys human companionship and likes to be in the center of attention.

It is always eager to please its people and will keep you entertained with its antics. It may develop separation anxiety when left alone for long periods.

Being an affectionate family pet, it gets along well with people and other pets, including dogs. Because of its alert nature, it can be used as a watchdog but do not expect it to be a loud, incessant barker.

Care

Exercise

Being an energetic breed, it needs a moderate amount of regular activity. Aside from regular walks on a leash, you should let your dog play in a fenced yard on a daily basis.

Grooming

It should regularly be groomed to keep its coat free of tangles and mats. Gently brushing its hairs using a soft-bristled brush as well as occasional trimming is recommended. The corners of its eyes should be cleaned to prevent tear-stains. You may use moistened gauze to wipe out accumulated debris or wax from its ears.

Health Problems

The Havana Silk is susceptible to several conditions including deafness, Legg-Calve-Perthes disease, patellar luxation, heart murmurs, eye disorders, and chondrodysplasia.

Training

Since it is smart and friendly by nature, the Havana Silk can quickly understand and learn to respond to your instructions.

Socialization
Although the Havana Silk is usually gentle around humans, it can sometimes be wary of people it does not know or become overly protective of its family. Therefore, you should socialize it early by taking it out on walks and introducing it to people of different ages, heights, shapes, and complexion, as well as to those in different outfits. Resist tugging when walking and pretend everything to be normal if it acts out. Make sure that the experience of meeting new people is positive for your dog.

House training
You should start housetraining your puppy once it is 12-16 weeks old to get it used to a regular potty schedule. Make sure you keep it on a daily feeding schedule. Take it out to eliminate in the morning, after meals, when it wakes up from a nap, and before it goes to sleep at night. Take it to the same place each time to eliminate, and when it poops outside, give it a treat.

Feeding

Give your Havana Silk a quality dog food with a balanced proportion of nutrients. Since it is prone to obesity, check its daily calorie consumption and give treats in moderation.

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